Maputo, July 2, 2026 (Lusa) - Former Mozambican President Armando Guebuza described xenophobia in South Africa on Thursday as a period of “turbulence” for the continent, calling for unity within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to resolve the crisis.
“In my speech, I used the example of someone sailing who encounters moments of turbulence; this simply means they will reach their destination safely. We are experiencing a period of turbulence in our region, but this turbulence will strengthen our conviction that the only way forward is to return to the SADC of a few years ago, when everyone knew that the SADC was united, organised, took a stand and achieved good results,” he said.
The former head of state was speaking on the sidelines of the 25th Annual Conference of the SADC Lawyers’ Association (SADC-LA), where, when asked by journalists about possible solutions to end the xenophobic violence in that country, he said he did not know “how to stop the wind with one’s hands”, leaving the solution to the Mozambican government authorities in coordination with South Africa.
“We are in a challenging situation; there is turbulence – it happens anywhere, and in this case, it is in South Africa. We will find ways, through our institutions, to resolve this, and the fact that we are holding this meeting of lawyers here (…) shows that our defining and constant factor is unity,” insisted Guebuza.
“I prefer calm and harmony; it is obvious that I support the position of the SADC and that it is moving towards greater cohesion and greater integration. As with any turbulence, we will address it,” he stated.
When asked whether increased employment in the country could put an end to emigration, Guebuza pointed out that relations between countries involve many factors beyond employability.
“If we all have common objectives, with common agendas, and work in accordance with those agendas, that is what will solve the problems,” he declared.
Meanwhile, the outgoing president of the Mozambican Bar Association, Carlos Martins, said the situation facing Mozambicans in South Africa is challenging and encouraged the government to explore concrete solutions to the employment problem.
“These are not merely political issues; they are social issues, and they often influence politicians because they focus on the moment, challenges, and elections. What I am saying is that the reasons for solidarity and for strengthening the region must be viewed differently today. Whilst we advocate solidarity, we must start thinking about ourselves – what we can do here to encourage our citizens to remain at home. We need to take responsibility for our own destiny,” said Martins.
South African anti-immigration protesters have issued an ultimatum, setting 30 June as the deadline for all foreigners to leave the country, and the South African government has in recent days announced restrictions on immigration and strengthened security measures.
At least 283 Mozambicans have experienced assault, home fires, and property vandalism, Mozambique’s government reported on Wednesday, as it seeks to provide assistance and facilitate repatriation.
Previously, Mozambique’s government acknowledged challenges regarding the repatriation and reintegration of its citizens, with nine Mozambicans already killed and 738 repatriated as a result of the attacks.
Mozambique's President Daniel Chapo acknowledged on Wednesday the escalation of xenophobia in South Africa, following violent incidents involving Mozambican citizens, and said logistical arrangements were in place for the repatriation and reception of the victims.
PME/ADB // ADB.
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